In This Section
June’s Life-Saving Story
French Fry’s Full Circle Journey
In late March, staff at Humane Pennsylvania’s Reading campus were faced with an urgent and emotional situation. French Fry, a 2-year-old French Bulldog, had been seen by another veterinarian who quoted a cost for an emergency C-section that her family couldn’t afford. Heartbroken, they decided to bring her to us, knowing Humane Pennsylvania could help her get the care she needed.
With no spare time, Dr. Alicia Simoneau, Humane PA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, stepped in to help. Dr. Sim performed the emergency surgery over her lunch break, determined to give both mom and puppies the best chance at life. Thanks to Dr. Sim’s quick action and the skilled support of our medical team, the surgery was a success, and seven healthy “potato” puppies were born – Sweet Potato, Tater Tot, Baked Potato, Mashed Potatoes, Potato Salad, Hashbrown, and Scalloped Potatoes.
But French Fry’s journey wasn’t over. In the hours after her operation, staff noticed she was barely producing any milk. Concerned for the newborns, the veterinary team decided to send the puppies home overnight with staff members to be bottle-fed around the clock. It was a long night, but their dedication paid off. By morning, French Fry’s milk had come in, and the family was reunited.
Over the next two months, French Fry and her pups were cared for by one of our dedicated foster volunteers, where they could rest, grow, and thrive. The puppies grew stronger each day, full of energy, curiosity, and love, ready for the forever homes waiting for them.
On May 29, the story came full circle. French Fry, now spayed and vaccinated, was reunited with her original family, who were overjoyed to welcome her back home. We were able to educate her family about the services Humane PA provides – and they know we are a safe, trusted resource if they ever need help again. They are now equipped with even more tools and resources to make sure French Fry thrives. That’s a powerful connection, and one we’re proud to have made.
All seven puppies have since been adopted into loving new homes, each one a bright example of what’s possible when we work together.
French Fry’s story is one of emergency care, compassion, and second chances. She and her puppies are alive and thriving today thanks to the tireless work of our staff and volunteers – and the generosity of people like you. Thank you for making moments like this possible.
Other Life-Saving Animal Stories
May’s Life-Saving Story
A Tote Full of Hope: Rescuing a Group of Abandoned Guinea Pigs
On Saturday, May 3, after a long and joyful day at The Walk for Animals, staff returned to our Reading campus only to be met with a heartbreaking sight—a plastic tote filled with abandoned guinea pigs left outside the building. Inside were several young pigs, shivering and confused, ranging in age from just 2–3 weeks to about 6 months old.
LeAnn Van Sciver, one of our dedicated team members, was the first to discover them. Without hesitation, she and the rest of the team sprang into action, quickly transferring the guinea pigs into safe and appropriate housing. They were gently separated by gender, given fresh bedding, food, water, and much-needed comfort after what was surely a terrifying experience.
By Monday, May 5, Humane PA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Alicia Simoneau, began examining the group. Among them was a particularly fragile baby guinea pig—underweight and suffering from an ulcer on one eye. It’s unclear whether the eye condition was the result of an old injury or a birth defect, but what was clear was that he needed special care. The team began monitoring him closely, making sure he was gaining weight and receiving the treatment he needed to heal.
Despite their rough start, the guinea pigs began to settle in and show their sweet, social personalities. Thanks to the quick response and compassionate care from staff, they are now healthy, thriving, and ready for adoption at our Reading and Lancaster locations.
What began as a heartbreaking discovery has turned into a new beginning for these little lives. Their resilience is a reminder that every animal deserves compassion, safety, and a second chance—and that’s exactly what they’ve found here at Humane Pennsylvania.
Stories like theirs are only possible because of the support of people like you. Your generosity helps provide emergency care, safe shelter, and brighter futures for animals in need. Thank you for being part of this lifesaving work.
April’s Life-Saving Story: Bebe Love
Bebe Love’s Journey: From Abandonment to a Forever Valentine
Lovae, a 3-year-old Teacup Poodle mix weighing just 4.4 lbs, arrived at Humane Pennsylvania’s Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving in the most heartbreaking way—abandoned outside our doors on a cold, wet February evening. As the shelter staff prepared to head home for the night, they found her curled up and shivering, unable to use her back legs.
One of Humane PA’s Veterinarians, Dr. Amber Weaver, was called in for an emergency evaluation. Despite being covered in fleas, suffering from dental disease, and showing signs of partial hindlimb paralysis, Lovae remained calm and sweet during her exam. Most importantly, she didn’t appear to be in pain. She was given steroids and placed under close observation for the weekend, with cautious hope that she might regain some mobility.
By the following week, no owner had come forward. Dr. Alicia Simoneau, Humane PA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, conducted further testing, including x-rays, and gave Lovae a much-needed shave. The results suggested a congenital spinal condition—likely spina bifida or hemivertebrae. Lovae was also found to be both urinary and fecal incontinent, conditions that would require lifelong management.
Despite her challenges, Lovae remained in good spirits, charming everyone she met. The veterinary team discussed her options, which included possible spinal surgery or a future managed with physical therapy, diapers, and a wheelchair. What was clear to everyone was that Lovae had likely lived with this condition since birth and had adapted with quiet resilience.
While searching for a rescue that could meet her special needs, Lovae went into foster care with one of our vet techs, Ella Hart, who had helped care for her from the beginning. It didn’t take long for Lovae to win Ella’s heart. After just two weeks in foster care, Ella officially adopted Lovae—and gave her a new name to match her new beginning: Bebe Love.
Now, Bebe Love is thriving in the place she was always meant to be—with someone who sees her for more than her medical needs and celebrates her for the sweet, strong pup she truly is.
Stories like Bebe Love’s are made possible by the compassion and generosity of supporters like you. Your contributions help provide urgent medical care, second chances, and loving homes to animals who need us most. Thank you for being part of this lifesaving journey.
March’s Life-Saving Story: Ghost
Ghost’s Journey: From Uncertainty to a Loving Home
Ghost, a 2-year-old American Pitbull Terrier, first came to Humane Pennsylvania on August 19, 2024, when his owner needed temporary housing through our PetNet Program. Partnering with Domestic Violence Services of Lancaster County (DVS) and Red Rover, we provided a safe place for Ghost while his family worked toward stability, hoping for a future reunion.
After several months, Ghost’s family made the difficult decision to surrender him for adoption so they could focus on their recovery, knowing it was the best choice for him. On November 22, Ghost officially became part of the Humane Pennsylvania family, and we began preparing him for his next chapter.
During his medical evaluation, our veterinary team discovered concerns with his eye pressure and a suspicious lump on his leg. Further diagnostics confirmed Glaucoma, a painful condition that would eventually lead to blindness. Fortunately, the lump turned out to be nothing serious, but Ghost’s eyes needed to be removed to give him the best quality of life.
On January 27, Ghost underwent a double enucleation. The entire team anxiously awaited how he would adjust, but true to his nature, Ghost remained the same joyful, playful dog we had all come to love. Just days after surgery, he was back to running laps in the yard and playing with his favorite toys as if nothing had changed.
Finally, Ghost was ready for the last step in his journey—finding a forever home. On February 8, 2025, his perfect match walked through our doors and welcomed him into their family.
Ghost’s new family recently reached out to share their joy. “Ghost is such a good dog! He’s happy to be with us and even likes 
our cat, Lumpy… once we took her bell off, he associated the noise with a toy, but all good now! They play and enjoy each other. Ghost has amazed us with how quickly he learned to navigate our house. We are happy to have him in our family, and he’s snorted and snored his way into our hearts.”
Stories like Ghost’s are made possible by the generous support of donors like you. Your contributions ensure that animals like Ghost receive the care, love, and second chances they deserve. Thank you for being a part of these lifesaving transformations and helping us create happy endings for animals in need.
February’s Life-Saving Story: Pandemonium
Pandemonium’s Unexpected Journey
Pandemonium’s story began under unexpected circumstances. On December 28, a kindhearted individual found an albino rat wandering the parking lot of a local Wawa in Sinking Spring. Alone and looking for shelter, she was brought to the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving, where Humane Pennsylvania’s staff quickly took her in.
At an estimated 3 years old, Pandemonium was sweet, calm, and eager for affection despite her tough start. She settled in quickly and became a staff favorite. However, what our team didn’t expect was the surprise she had in store for us.
On January 16, our staff arrived to check on Pandemonium, and to their shock, they found her caring for a litter of six tiny baby rats! Despite the stress of her life as a stray, Pandemonium proved to be an amazing, nurturing mom. She showered her babies with love and care, keeping them safe and warm.
Now, our team is hard at work socializing the babies to prepare them for adoption in the next few weeks. We’re also continuing to care for Pandemonium, ensuring she is healthy and ready for a new chapter in her life. We can’t wait for Pandemonium and her babies to find the loving homes they deserve.
We’re so grateful for the community that supports our lifesaving efforts, and we couldn’t have helped Pandemonium and her babies without the help from our staff, donors, and volunteers. Together, we can continue to give animals in need a second chance.
From Heartbreak to Healing: Leia’s Journey to a New Beginning
When Leia arrived at the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving on October 11, she was just two months old and part of an unexpected litter of seven puppies. Her previous caretaker, overwhelmed and unable to care for them all, had done their best, but Leia’s situation was urgent. She had a makeshift splint on her tiny front leg, which they believed was broken but couldn’t confirm or treat.
The moment Leia was surrendered, her road to recovery began. Humane Pennsylvania Veterinarian, Dr. Amber Weaver quickly stepped in, 
prescribing pain medication, removing the splint, and ordering X-rays to assess the damage. Just a few days later, Dr. Alicia Simoneau, HPA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, confirmed Leia’s front leg was indeed broken but offered hope: with a proper splint, cage rest, and lots of love, her leg might heal.
Leia’s journey continued in a loving foster home, where her healing process could be closely monitored. Her foster family instantly fell for her sweet spirit, sharing:
“Leia came to us with a cast on her front leg, but it didn’t slow her down. She quickly found her rhythm, thumping through our living room with joy. She played hard, snuggled harder, and made herself at home in our laps. After a few weeks, her cast was removed, and we watched in awe as she built strength in her leg. Soon, she was running—albeit slowly—around the backyard, her resilience shining through.”
By late November, Leia’s X-rays revealed incredible news: her leg had fully healed! With her splint off and her playful spirit intact, Leia was back to being a happy, healthy pup. On December 1, she was cleared for adoption—and her happy ending came just days later.
On December 7, Leia was adopted into a wonderful family, fitting in perfectly with her Star Wars-themed siblings. Leia’s story came full circle when her new family brought her back to the Freedom Center for pet photos with Santa, showing just how much she is loved. From heartbreak to healing, Leia has truly found her galaxy far, far away with her forever family.
Stories like Leia’s are made possible by the generous support of donors like you. Your contributions ensure that animals like Leia receive the care, love, and second chances they deserve. Thank you for being a part of these lifesaving transformations!
Macie’s Journey: From Survival to Safety
Just a few short weeks ago, Macie, a one-year-old calico community cat, reminded us why every life matters. She was part of a growing colony of 20 cats cared for on a private wooded property. When the colony caretakers contacted Humane Pennsylvania to help with Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), it became clear how urgently she needed assistance.
Before the team could begin, Macie disappeared for five long days. When she returned, her right eye was severely injured and bleeding. Skittish and wary of people, she needed immediate care, but trapping her required patience and strategy. With guidance from Humane Pennsylvania, the caregivers successfully trained Macie to eat inside a trap, catching her a week after her injury.
Humane Pennsylvania Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Alicia Simoneau, examined Macie and determined she was healthy aside from her injury. Her damaged eye was removed, and she received full TNR care, including spay surgery, vaccinations, and parasite treatment. Despite uncertainties about her recovery, Macie surprised everyone with her resilience.
Humane Pennsylvania’s Community Outreach Programs Manager, Alex Young, took Macie home to recover in a large dog crate, and though shy, she adapted quickly—eating well, using her litter box, and keeping her space tidy. Initially, Macie was to return to her colony, but her incredible strength inspired Alex and her husband, Bill, to offer her a safer home. Macie is now their second barn cat, joining their first, Finn, in a secure indoor-outdoor catio where she can enjoy fresh air and safety.
Meanwhile, the colony continues to benefit from Humane Pennsylvania’s TNR efforts. Ten adults have been sterilized, with more scheduled for care. The colony caretakers, grateful for Humane PA’s support, donated five professional-grade humane traps to assist future community cat programs.
Thanks to the incredible support of donors, volunteers, and advocates like you, Huamne Pennsylvania was able to give Macie the lifesaving care she desperately needed. Your generosity creates these second chances for animals in need, and with your ongoing support, we can continue to rescue and transform the lives of more animals just like Macie!
A Lifesaving Journey: Oslo’s Story
On Sunday, October 13, a collaboration between Humane Pennsylvania and two other local animal welfare organizations brought hope to 17 cats in need. These cats were rescued from the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center in Tampa, Florida, in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which caused devastating flooding and displacement for many animals. Thanks to the quick response of dedicated rescue organizations, these cats were transported to the Lancaster Adoption Center for Cats & Critters, where they would receive the care and attention they deserved.
Upon arrival, our dedicated animal care technicians examined the group, finding most of them happy and healthy, ready for their forever homes. More than half of the happy and healthy cats have already been adopted, bringing joy to new families.
However, one cat stood out in urgent need of medical attention—Oslo, a 6-year-old neutered male Domestic Longhair.
Oslo’s condition was concerning. Significant swelling was noted on his face, prompting immediate action. Our veterinary team conducted a thorough examination, where they discovered that Oslo had three broken canines and old scarring on his face, indicating a troubled past. The vets recommended testing him for FIV and FELV and swiftly moved to remove his broken teeth. To combat the swelling caused by his dental issues, he received an antibiotic shot.
During his sedation for the dental procedure, a full exam revealed more health challenges. Oslo needed several teeth extracted, and he was diagnosed with a double ear infection, old corneal scarring, a heart murmur, and FIV positivity. Despite these hurdles, Oslo’s spirit remained strong. Today, Oslo is recovering well from his dental surgery and ear infection. He is receiving the love and care he needs at HPA’s Freedom Center in Reading, and he’s now patiently awaiting his forever home.
Thanks to our dedicated Humane Pennsylvania team and donors, this sweet boy has a second chance at life. With each day, he moves closer to finding the loving family he deserves.
Without your support, this lifesaving second chance wouldn’t have been possible for Oslo and the other cats affected by Hurricane Milton.
If you’re interested in adopting Oslo or supporting our lifesaving work, please reach out to us. Together, we can make a difference for even more animals in need!
Joey’s Journey: From Stray to Beloved Companion
In late September, a good Samaritan spotted a small, scruffy dog wandering near the Reading Pagoda. This was Joey, a little 7-year old terrier mix who looked like he’d seen better days. Covered in dirt and matted fur, Joey also showed signs of distress, refusing to put weight on his rear hind leg. It was clear he had been suffering, and with no owner in sight, he was brought to Humane Pennsylvania’s Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving for help.
Upon intake, our veterinary team quickly assessed Joey’s injuries. Sedated X-rays revealed a heartbreaking truth: his foot was fractured due to a string tangled in the thick matting that had been weighing him down for who knows how long. The injury had caused an infection and serious damage, and it was clear that he needed to have his leg amputated. Our veterinarians felt heartbroken knowing Joey had been suffering alone on the streets.
Surgery day arrived, and while it was a bit more complicated than expected, our dedicated team worked tirelessly to keep Joey safe and comfortable. After the surgery, one of our compassionate vet techs, Chloe, took Joey home for the weekend to help him recover. As the days went by, Joey’s personality started to shine through, and Chloe found herself smitten by his resilience and sweetness.
By October 2nd, a new chapter began for Joey. Overwhelmed with love and affection for her weekend companion, Chloe decided to adopt him for good. Now, Joey not only has a second chance at life but also a loving forever home. His story is a beautiful reminder of how much we can change the lives of animals in need, turning a tale of hardship into one of hope and love.
Thanks to the incredible support from donors, volunteers, and advocates like you, Humane Pennsylvania was able to give Joey the lifesaving surgery he desperately needed. Your generosity helps create these second chances for animals in need, and with your ongoing support, we can continue to rescue and transform the lives of more animals just like Joey!
Mocha, Mojo, and Abby Elizabeth: Three Little Miracles
Meet Mocha, Mojo, and Abby Elizabeth—three kittens whose journey to a happy ending is nothing short of incredible! On July 10th, these tiny furballs, along with their mom, were discovered by a Good Samaritan near a local Wawa. The kittens had noticeable eye deformities, and it was clear they needed immediate medical attention.
Upon examination by our Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Alicia Simoneau, it was found that all three kittens had eye deformities where their upper eyelids were not fully formed. To correct this, they required surgery, but first, they needed to gain weight in a foster home.
One of our most experienced fosters stepped up, providing the care and love needed to help Mocha, Mojo, and Abby Elizabeth grow strong and healthy. After gaining enough weight, the kittens returned to the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving for their spay/neuter procedures and the crucial eye surgeries. We’re thrilled to report that the surgeries were a success! While they may face some vision challenges and need eye ointments to keep their eyes comfortable, they are playful and full of life.
In a heartwarming twist, the foster mom fell in love with two of the kittens and decided to adopt them. Her neighbor also adopted the third kitten, ensuring that all three would remain together. As of September 4, 2024, Mocha, Mojo, and Abby Elizabeth have officially found their forever homes!
Their story is a beautiful reminder of the difference that dedicated care, community support, and a little bit of love can make.
With the generous support of donors, volunteers, and advocates like you, Humane Pennsylvania was able to provide these kittens with the lifesaving surgery they needed to flourish. Your contributions make these second chances possible, and with your continued support, we can save even more animals like Mocha, Mojo, and Abby Elizabeth!
Uno: One in a Million
At the start of the year, a couple facing unimaginable hardship reached out to Humane Pennsylvania’s Healthy Pets Initiative (HPI). They had lost their home and were living in a tent in a dense, wooded area. Despite their own struggles, they took in a very hungry feral cat they named Carmen. As Carmen grew to trust her new guardians, she gave birth to a litter of kittens right inside their tent, nestled between storage totes.
Though the couple’s finances were stretched thin, their love for Carmen and her kittens was boundless. They tried to raise money to spay
and neuter the five cats but found it challenging. That’s when the compassionate supporters of HPI stepped in, covering the cost of the necessary surgeries. Humane PA also provided food and other supplies to help the family care for their furry friends.
However, tragedy struck six months later when two of Carmen’s kittens were attacked by an outdoor animal. Uno, the kitten who survived, suffered a severe laceration to his leg. An emergency vet treated Uno, removing a tooth from the joint at no charge and advised a follow-up with their regular vet. Since Uno and his siblings had been helped by HPI before, the couple reached out for assistance once more.
HPI volunteers sprang into action, helping transport Uno to follow-up appointments with Dr. Alicia Simoneau, Humane Pennsylvania’s Chief Veterinary Officer. Dr. Simoneau determined that Uno’s leg could be saved without amputation, provided the couple could manage his dressings and medication. HPI lent them two large dog crates to help keep Uno immobile while his leg healed. All subsequent dressing supplies were acquired through donations to the couple directly.
Thanks to the dedicated care from his guardians and the support from HPI, Uno’s wounds healed beautifully. He’s now undergoing tether training, allowing him to safely enjoy the outdoors without straying too far. The couple’s gratitude for the life-saving help they received from Humane Pennsylvania has been immeasurable.
Through the collective efforts of compassionate supporters and dedicated volunteers, Uno’s story is one of hope, healing, and a community coming together to make a difference.
The Legend of Zelda: Creating a Champion
Zelda, a beautiful and affectionate 5-year-old spayed female Bengal, was surrendered to the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving in Reading after developing some medical issues that her previous caretaker could no longer afford to mediate, including a recommended kidney removal.
When Zelda was spayed as a kitten before arriving at Humane PA, it is believed that her ureter was nicked, which caused her urine to stop flowing properly and one of her kidneys to stop functioning. When a prior vet visit resulted in a recommendation to have the non-functioning kidney removed, Zelda’s caretaker made the difficult decision to surrender her to HPA’s care on May 4, 2024.
On May 6, just two days after intake, Humane Veterinarian Dr. Amber Weaver successfully removed the non-functioning kidney, and Zelda recovered without any issues. Once she was out of surgery, Zelda’s previous caretaker reached out to our Berks adoption center staff for an update on how she was doing.
HPA staff relayed the good news that Zelda was recovering well from the surgery and they gave her previous family the option to reclaim her as their own. Despite their love for her, they acknowledged it was not the right time and allowed HPA staff to find a new family for Zelda who would have no problem giving her all the love and attention she deserved.
When Zelda was fully recovered from surgery, she was cleared for adoption and the hunt began for a new family for Zelda. Because of losing one of her kidneys,
it was likely that Zelda would have a shortened lifespan and would eventually develop kidney disease, which would normally make her harder to adopt.
Thankfully, Zelda’s new family was not deterred and they promised they would love her unconditionally for the rest of her life. Zelda was officially adopted on May 15, 2024, less than two weeks after being surrendered.
Thanks to the generous support from donors, volunteers, and supporters like you, Humane Pennsylvania was able to give Zelda the lifesaving operation she needed to thrive. Without your help, these second chances would not be possible. Your donation gives us a fighting chance to save even more animals just like Zelda!
A Helping Hand from Humane PA: From Hoarded Homes to Happy Homes
On May 24, 2024, Humane Pennsylvania staff at the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving received a call for help from a fellow animal welfare organization asking if we would be able to assist with transferring some of their dogs into our care. They explained that on the previous day, their humane officers removed a total of 51 cats and dogs, ranging from injured to sick to deceased, from a hoarding situation in Bern Township. Officials initially responded to check on an animal with a broken leg and were met with horror when they discovered several animals living in horribly unsanitary conditions. A warrant was issued and the animals were removed from the home, with the assistance of Pennsylvania State Police and Bern Township Police.
The other rescue was already at capacity when the raid occurred, which is why they were asking Humane PA and several other agencies to step in and help. Penelope, Derek, and Rocky were brought to HPA and received their initial intake exams before being officially cleared for adoption! Fortunately, despite the deplorable conditions they were found in, all dogs received clean bills of health.
Penelope
Derek
Rocky
Rocky, a 1-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier was adopted first on May 30, 2024. Penelope, a 7-month-old Blue Merle, followed suit and was adopted the following day!
Derek, a 1-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier, is still waiting for the perfect human to sweep him off his paws! Please spread the word to help find a loving home for Derek!
Without the generous support from donors and animal lovers like you, we have the resources and supplies we need to help other rescue groups and agencies free up kennel space when they reach capacity. Thanks to you, we were able to step in and assist in giving these helpless animals a life-saving second chance and a loving new home.
Anne: A True Vision
Meet Anne, a beautiful 7-year-old spayed female Calico, who was surrendered to Humane Pennsylvania’s Lancaster Center for Animal Life-Saving at the end of January 2024 after her elderly caretaker sadly passed away. Upon intake, staff members noticed that Anne did not want to be touched on her head and she could barely open her eyes, due to what appeared to be an eye infection. She had no interest in coming out of her shell. During her initial exam, HPA’s veterinary team noted that they would need to give Anne a thorough sedated exam, to figure out what was causing the infection.
Anne was started on antibiotics shortly after intake, and she went in for her sedated exam on February 9. Unfortunately, while under anesthesia, Humane PA’s veterinary staff discovered that neither of Anne’s eyes were functioning, which was causing her immense pain and discomfort and would lead to further health issues and risks in the future. The infection was severe enough that it warranted the difficult decision to remove both of Anne’s eyes.
Anne’s behavior was like night and day after the double enucleation. The staff could not believe the improvement in her personality. When she first arrived, she would close herself off in corners and preferred to be alone. After surgery, she couldn’t stop purring, giving head bumps, and seeking affection from anyone and everyone! Anne was officially adopted by her new forever family on February 29, 2024, shortly one month after she was first surrendered into Humane Pennsylvania’s care.
Thanks to the generous support from donors, volunteers, and supporters like you, Humane Pennsylvania was able to provide Anne with some much-needed relief. Without you, these life-saving second chances would not be possible. Please donate to help Humane PA build the best community anywhere to be an animal or animal caretaker!
Narwhal: A Life-Saving Transformation
Narwhal, a 7-year-old Cocker Spaniel who was found as a stray by East Lampeter Police Department, arrived in rough shape at the Lancaster Center for Animal Life-Saving in late November. Although it is very hard to see in his intake photo to the left, his coat was severely matted to his skin and there was a strong, evident smell of infection coming from his ears and mouth. Humane Pennsylvania staff made every attempt to locate Narwhal’s original owners, but sadly no one came forward to claim him.
One week after his arrival, Narwhal was sent to HPA’s Reading campus for a full veterinary examination and a much-needed haircut. He was carefully looked over by Humane Pennsylvania Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Alicia Simoneau, who noted that a full ear examination was too painful for him, and recommended that he be placed under sedation for a more thorough ear and mouth exam, which was done the following week.
While under anesthesia, Humane Pennsylvania Veterinarian. Dr. Jackie Connolly noted that Narwhal was suffering from severe ear infections and dental disease that needed to be addressed as soon as possible. He was neutered and received a deep ear cleaning, along with medication for a speedy recovery. HPA veterinary assistants and technicians seized the opportunity to shave Narwhal down while he was sedated. They worked tirelessly, carefully, and diligently to remove the matting in his coat, ears, and paws. Although time was of the essence when it came to his dental issues, Narwhal was woken up from anesthesia for his safety, and his dental procedure was scheduled just a few days later.
Progress photos of shaving Narwhal’s matted paws.
On December 15th, less than a month after he was found as a stray in the worst condition, Narwhal was placed under anesthesia once more for a dental cleaning and to remove any decaying teeth. In total, he had 15 teeth removed. Shelter staff placed him on a wet food diet and provided him with pain medication to help him heal comfortably. He was officially adopted the next day, during HPA’s sponsored 12 Days of Adoptions special.
Matting from Narwhal’s coat and ears.
Humane PA could only provide this life-saving treatment because of the support from generous donors, like you. Like thousands of other pets each year, Narwhal had access to care and treatment that would otherwise not be possible without the exceptional staff and volunteers at Humane Pennsylvania.
December’s Life-Saving Story: Gertrude
Gertrude: Growing into a Beautiful Daisy
Gertrude, a 4-year-old female Pitbull mix was surrendered to the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving at the end of September when she was found on the streets by a good Samaritan. When she arrived, she was extremely itchy and had severely flakey, dry skin. Humane Pennsylvania staff took one look at her and knew they needed to get her some help.
Gertrude was immediately seen by Humane Pennsylvania Veterinarian, Dr. Amber Weaver, who diagnosed her with a severe skin infection, most likely caused by allergies and an ear infection. The veterinary staff got Gertrude started on antibiotics and steroids to help combat her infection and provide her with some much-needed relief.
Gertrude received multiple checkups with the veterinary team over the next few weeks, each time showing some improvement, but shelter staff knew that in order to continue and finish her skin-healing journey, they needed to get her out of the confines of the shelter and into a loving, forever home.
After featuring Gertrude as Pet of the Week, she was finally adopted on November 18th, 2023, after spending almost two months in the shelter. Her family immediately fell in love with this sweet girl and knew they could help restore her shiny black coat. Gertrude’s family graciously provided Humane Pennsylvania staff with this update on her:
“On November 18th, 2023, we adopted Gertrude. At first, we weren’t sure because of her skin condition, but we are glad we looked past that because she has
such a gentle spirit about her. After only one day, things are moving along on the fast track. She has met the cat and the granddaughter with no issues and lets us know when she needs to go out to use the bathroom. We think it will be a good fit for everyone. Thank you guys so much for what you do. We were told you named her Gertrude because she resembled an old woman. We decided to rename her Daisy because she’s going to transform from an old woman into a beautiful flower. May the blessings of God rest upon you all!”
Thanks to generous support from donors like you, Humane Pennsylvania staff and volunteers were able to provide Gertrude with care and treatment that saved her life and gave her a second chance at a loving family. Please consider giving whatever you can, so Humane PA can save every animal that comes into their care.
Gino & Aspen: A United Force To Be Reckoned With
Puppy siblings Gino and Aspen were about one month old when they were surrendered to Humane Pennsylvania’s care in early October 2023. A good Samaritan rescued them from someone she walked past on the street, who was handing out the puppies for free. Their rescuer immediately recognized that the young pups were extremely quiet, underweight, and lethargic.
She took the remaining two free puppies home with her to try and nurse them back to health.
Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, Gino and Aspen’s conditions only worsened, and the finder feared that time was running out. She realized they needed more help and brought the puppies to the Freedom Center of Animal Life-Saving on October 12, 2023.
Due to their appearance, both Gino and Aspen were immediately triaged by Humane Pennsylvania’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Alicia Simoneau. Dr. Simoneau concluded that both puppies were extremely underweight, anemic, and lethargic. Thankfully, results showed that both puppies tested negative for Parvovirus.
The Humane Pennsylvania Veterinary staff recommended promptly warming and deworming the puppies, as well as giving them fluids and Karo high fructose corn syrup. Dr. Simoneau also stated that the puppies would require round-the-clock care and overnight feedings every few hours to help regulate their glucose levels.
Gino and Aspen were immediately placed into the HPA foster program for some intensive TLC. Surely, the shelter was not a suitable place for two recovering young pups. The appointed foster family was provided with all the supplies needed to care for the puppies and did an excellent job of loving them and getting them back into tip-top shape, as seen in the photo below. Gino and Aspen received their spay/neuter surgeries and were cleared for adoption on November 10th. Gino was adopted first on November 16th, followed by Aspen shortly after on November 19th.
Thanks to the Humane Pennsylvania staff, volunteers, and generous donors like you, Gino and Aspen were able to make a full recovery and they are growing stronger every single day! It takes a village to nurse one animal back to health and without your help, Humane PA’s work would not be possible. Any amount, big or small, can help save a life.
Max the Senior Westie: Looks Can Be Deceiving
Max, a 15-year-old West Highland Terrier, was brought into Humane Veterinary Hospitals Reading on July 31, 2023, and appeared to be in rough shape physically. Max’s original owner had recently passed away, and no one else in the family was able to take care of him. Based on the condition of Max’s teeth and coat, as well as the factor of his age, his family believed that their only option to explore was end-of-life services.
Humane Pennsylvania Veterinarian, Dr. Jackie Connolly, examined Max and determined that he still had a lot of spirit and spunk left in him, despite his advanced age and matted, unkept appearance. Besides needing quite a bit of dental work, Max appeared to be in overall good health.
Dr. Connolly immediately called Humane PA’s Adoption Programs Manager, Aida May, to see if there was a spare kennel available for this senior pup at the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving and if staff would be willing to work on finding him a home for whatever amount of time he had left. Everyone unanimously agreed that Max deserved a second chance in a loving home, and his previous family officially signed him over to HPA’s care.
Once in the shelter, animal care technicians and the HPA veterinary team did a full evaluation on Max and found him to be deaf, with limited vision, and in need of some serious dental work and a haircut. He received dental surgery on August 14, where he had all of his teeth removed due to the severity of his dental disease. This required Max to be placed on a wet food-only diet for the rest of his life. After Max got his haircut, he was unrecognizable and looked like a completely different dog!
While in HPA’s care, Max would lay quietly and patiently in his kennel, as he watched almost 170 other animals get adopted before him. Max never gave up hope though, as he was a full triple-threat, getting along with kids, cats, and bigger dogs! After receiving a little extra love on HPA’s social media channels, it was finally Max’s turn to go home. He was officially adopted on September 15!
Humane PA believes that every animal deserves the chance to live a happy and healthy life, which is why they treat every animal as if they are their own. Thanks to the hardworking and compassionate staff at Humane Pennsylvania, and support from dedicated donors like you, Max was able to start over and find a loving home to comfortably live out his golden years! Please consider donating any amount to help HPA give more animals a second chance!
Endurance: A Test of Strength
This handsome man is Endurance, a 4-year-old male domestic long-haired cat, who spent the first few years of his life as an outdoor cat until he found himself in a tight spot…literally. Endurance has become a familiar face to the Lancaster staff, as he is one of five feral cat regulars that have hung around the Lancaster adoption center since 2022. Endurance, like his feral friends, would show up at the same time every day to be fed and greet Lancaster staff members. Toward the end of May, Lancaster Animal Care Technician, Laura Gibbs, noticed that Endurance stopped showing up to eat and it had been a few weeks since anyone last saw him.
When it came time to feed the feral cats again, Endurance was still nowhere in sight. However, Laura could hear a
faint meowing coming from an abandoned building that sits adjacent to the Lancaster Center for Animal Life-Saving. Laura immediately jumped into action and began to crawl under the building, removing insulation and tearing away lining as she got closer to the trapped cat. Staff managed to remove Endurance from the hole he was trapped in and evaluated him to find he was extremely dehydrated, matted, and emaciated, weighing only 5.85 pounds. It was at this point that Endurance got his name, as it was unclear how long he had been waiting for someone to save him.
After one week of receiving fluids, taking antibiotics, and eating a nutritious diet, Endurance was reweighed and was already up to 7.8 pounds! Because of this good news, Endurance was whisked away into one of our foster homes to see if he could be rehabilitated into an adoption candidate or if he would be happier as part of the outdoor cat colony.
While it took Endurance a few days to adjust to being indoors and around people, he started to seek out affection and would even sit with his foster mom at night for chin scratches and belly pats. Foster care truly worked its magic on Endurance, and he was ready to find a pampered palace to call his own. Endurance barely made it onto the adoption floor before his original rescuer, Laura, scooped him up into her arms. Laura has officially deemed herself “a crazy cat lady.” Once filthy, matted, and 
homeless, Endurance is now clean, mat-free, and completely loved.
Thanks to Laura and the rest of the staff at Humane Pennsylvania, Endurance has found a home to call his very own, and he can live happily ever after as the spoiled, indoor boy he was born to be. Happy endings like Endurance’s would not be possible without the generosity of donors like you! Please donate to help us find a forever home for every deserving animal in need!
Ember: Rising from the Ashes
“So she searches for light, only to realize it’s in her, like an ember equipped to ignite.”
– Jessica Sorensen
Allow us to introduce you to Ember, a beautiful buff-colored 5-month-old female kitten, who was found within the remains of a rowhome that was destroyed by a fire in the 1000 block of N. 11th Street in Reading at the end of April. Surrounding neighbors living on the block believed that Ember belonged to someone that lived in one of the perished homes, but no one came back for her.
Fire Marshalls removed Ember from the harsh conditions and brought her to the Freedom Center for Animal Lifesaving on June 15th. When she arrived, she was extremely underweight and her fur was covered in soot and fleas. She even had soot in her ears! Every attempt was made to find her original owner, but no one ever came forward. One of the Fire Marshalls on the scene, Lieutenant John Naylor, mentioned that he recently lost his cat named Sooty, and asked that shelter staff keep the same name for this kitten in Sooty’s honor.
Shelter staff started Sooty on a nutritious wet-food diet for weight gain, gave her a flea treatment, and cleaned her up in preparation for finding her new forever home, which did not take long at all. The following day, shelter staff received an unexpected, but delightful call from Lieutenant Naylor. He stated that after thinking about Sooty all night and discussing it with his family, they decided it was a sign to adopt her and give her a forever home.
That same day, Humane Veterinarian, Dr. Amber Weaver evaluated Sooty and determined that she would not experience any long-lasting side effects of living in the remains of a burnt home. Sooty was then cleared for spay surgery and adoption.
Sooty’s surgery was completed on June 19th and she was adopted by Lieutenant Naylor and family the very next day. They decided to rename her Ember, as she was able to rise from the ashes to glow and thrive in a new forever home.
The life-saving work done at Humane Pennsylvania would not be possible without the support and dedication of our donors, volunteers, and staff. Thanks to their generosity, we were able to rescue Ember from an unfit environment, provide treatment, and find a new forever home for her. Please consider donating to help save the lives of other displaced animals in the community, just like Ember.
Chip: Looking Good, Feline Good
Meet Chip, a 1-year-old male domestic shorthair who was surrendered to the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving at the beginning of April, due to his original caretaker’s declining health. Other than a cloudy right eye from a previous infection, Chip was a healthy cat overall. However, he became extremely shut down at the shelter and would hide in corners, cowering away from anyone who tried to come near him.
Chip was taken to Humane Veterinary Hospitals – Reading to be examined by Humane Veterinarian Dr. Amber Weaver, who immediately noticed an ulcer on Chip’s right eye. She knew that the right medication would do the trick, and hoped that administering the medication would be a breeze like it was with so many other cats before…To her dismay, Chip responded to receiving his medication by hissing, swatting, and displaying overt signs of stress.
When Dr. Weaver re-examined Chip’s eyes, she was disheartened to see increased inflammation of his iris, and prescribed steroid eye drops. Seeing no improvement after administering the drops, Dr. Weaver checked the pressure in both eyes and interestingly found normal pressures in the eye being treated. However, what was believed to be the healthy eye had higher pressure, which was causing Chip immense pain and discomfort, and would likely get worse and more unbearable in time. More medications were prescribed to Chip, which he despised and fought hard to refuse. Without them, however, Dr. Weaver stated that Chip would likely experience continuous pain similar to a constant, debilitating migraine.
Staff were met with a dilemma, and the question had to be asked. What can be done for a cat who loathes eye medication, but would need them for the rest of their life? Without the medication, this condition could seriously impact Chip’s quality of life in his later years. After discussing the options, it was decided that the best course of action would be to remove both of Chip’s eyes to relieve the pressure.
After the successful removal of both eyes, Chip turned into a completely different cat! It was clear how much pain he must have been in, and how much better and happier he felt. Hiding, hissing, and swatting has turned into purring, making biscuits, rolling around, and seeking attention from anyone who walks by. Chip is currently waiting for his new forever family at the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving.
A life-saving double-eye enucleation for Chip would not have been possible without the amazing donors who support the work being done at Humane Pennsylvania. Your generosity gives animals like Chip a second chance at a happy, comfortable life. Donate now to help us save more animals like Chip.
A Pet is Worth Saving, No Matter How Small
GG, a scared and defenseless female Hamster, was found stuck in a glue trap on the streets of Reading at the beginning of May. The good Samaritan who found her worked carefully to remove the glue from her stomach and paws, before bringing her to the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving.
Shelter staff immediately began treating GG’s skin, while continuing to search for her original owners, thinking someone must be missing her and would surely want her back home, where she is safe and comfortable.
While in HPA’s care, GG was examined by Humane Veterinarian Dr. Weaver, who was relieved to see that GG did not suffer any major, unrepairable injuries. She recommended that GG be monitored and receive daily cleansing baths with a chlorhexidine rinse to heal her irritated skin. She also advised that antibiotics may be needed if GG became lethargic or her skin condition worsened.
Fortunately, the baths helped and GG’s skin began to heal, which cleared her for adoption. After receiving overwhelming interest in this tiny but mighty girl via social media, GG found her new forever family on May 6 and has been getting back into the swing of what she does best – enjoying life as a happy, safe, pet hamster once more.
No matter how big or small, the staff at Humane Pennsylvania always does their due diligence in saving every animal that finds itself in their care. Things were no different in GG’s case. Humane Pennsylvania saw a glimmer of hope in those tiny eyes and immediately acted to save GG’s life, giving her the second chance that she deserved. Please consider donating to help save the lives of other homeless animals, just like GG.
Reese’s Comeback: Miracles Happen
Reese, a 10-year-old domestic shorthair, lived happily with his previous caretaker for 5 years before he was surrendered to the care of the Lancaster Center for Animal Life-Saving this past Winter due to the caretaker’s declining health and inability to afford veterinary care for Reese. During the intake process, shelter staff immediately noticed Reese was covered in live fleas and flea dirt. They saw that his fur was thinning, he had significant scabbing, he was overweight and he was drooling excessively. Despite his concerning appearance, Reese appeared happy and playful to the HPA staff.
Reese was then seen by Humane Veterinarian, Dr. Connolly, who discovered an ulcerated mass underneath his tongue. She immediately feared the worst – Reese may have mouth cancer and recommended that he be placed on a diet in order to be cleared for mass removal surgery as soon as possible. After a few days, the mass became noticeably infected and painful for Reese. Pain medication was prescribed, and he was transferred to Humane Veterinary Hospitals Reading for an emergency mass removal on March 3rd.
After recovering from surgery, Reese went home with a generous hospice adopter and was seen by another local Veterinarian, who gave the dreaded diagnosis. Reese was at extremely high risk for mouth cancer and likely only had 1-3 months to live. Sadly, Reese was returned to the Lancaster shelter shortly thereafter, as he was not getting along with the other cats in the home. It was recommended to Humane PA staff to consider humane euthanasia or find a cat hospice willing to take him in. The shelter staff was confident that someone out there would love Reese unconditionally, so the search for Reese’s forever home continued.
While Reese waited for the right match to come along, he remained in the care of the Lancaster staff and was provided pain medication to keep him comfortable. Naturally, volunteers fell in love with his personality and temperament. One of the dedicated cat volunteers noticed how Reese continued to thrive in the shelter, despite his terminal diagnosis, and very generously decided to cover the cost of having Reese’s mass sent out for testing! The mass was sent out on April 6th and everyone held their breath until the results came back just five days later.
Miraculously, the mass was completely clear of cancerous cells. Reese was now ready to enjoy his second chance at life as a senior cat! On April 14th, the wait was finally over and Reese was adopted! He has been adjusting well to his new home and loves being on the move!
Thanks to the dedication and help from Humane Pennsylvania volunteers, donors, and staff, Reese was given a second chance at being a happy, healthy house cat. With the incredible generosity of supporters like you, animals in our care are able to thrive and survive.
Squash the Tripod Kitten: What’s in a Name?
Squash, a tiny and defenseless kitten, was surrendered to the care of Humane Pennsylvania in November of 2022 during an emergency walk-in appointment, after a concerned passerby picked him up from the side of a busy road. HPA Animal Care Technicians quickly noticed that the 6-month-old kitten was unable to bear weight on his back legs, and immediately called on the Humane Veterinary team for help.
An x-ray performed by Humane Veterinarian, Dr. Connolly, showed fractures in both back legs, significant displacement in the rear left leg, and a femoral head fracture – likely from being struck by a vehicle. Due to the complexity of the fracture and its proximity to the skin, HPA veterinarians made the difficult but necessary decision to remove the severely broken leg and provide strict cage rest to allow the other leg to heal fully and successfully.
Four days after being surrendered, Squash underwent neuter surgery and a full left leg amputation. Unfortunately, Squash had difficulty recovering from anesthesia due to his size and condition and was showing potential signs of a blood clot – pale gums, low blood pressure, and unresponsiveness. Everyone feared that Squash would not make it through the night.
If miracles truly are real, this little guy’s story sure is one! The following morning, HPA staff saw a complete change and unbelievable improvement in Squash! He was bright-eyed, purring, eating, and attempting to move around. That same day, he was approved for intake and was back to his old kitten ways – making biscuits and begging to be held.
After about three weeks of cage rest, Squash’s right leg healed significantly and he was cleared for adoption. Within another two weeks or so, Squash found his forever home! The Lancaster staff completed a three-week check-in with Squash’s new family in January, and he is having a fantastic time exploring his new home.
Lifesaving treatment and remarkable recoveries like this one would not have been possible without the help of HPA supporters and donors. Generous gifts from animal-lovers everywhere is the only way to ensure that Humane Pennsylvania has the resources needed to provide emergency care for the next vulnerable animal that comes into their care.
Willow Comes Home: Little Fear, Many Braveries
In May of 2022, the Humane Pennsylvania shelter staff was introduced to Willow, a 9-week-old Shetland Sheepdog who was in pretty rough shape. When she first arrived, her eyes were crusted shut, and she had sore lesions in her ears and on her mouth. Her condition was unlike anything our shelter staff had ever seen before.
Some would say that Willow fell into the lap of her original caretaker when they were approached by a neighbor who was breeding dogs. The breeder handed Willow over, stating she was not worth being treated, and he would ‘dispose’ of her if no one took her. With that, Willow’s original caretaker felt that she had no choice but to take the helpless puppy in. After only a few days, she was heartbroken to discover that she was allergic and unable to keep Willow, which is how she ended up at the Lancaster Center for Animal Life-Saving.
It was obvious to the shelter staff that the poor pup was in extreme discomfort and desperately needed some medical attention. After careful evaluation by Humane Veterinarian, Dr. Jackie Connolly, it was determined that Willow was suffering from Juvenile Cellulitis, also known as Puppy Strangles, an uncommon skin condition that usually develops in young dogs. Willow was clearly in a lot of pain and she cried out when anyone attempted to touch her mouth. Due to the severity of the circumstance, it was quickly determined that Willow should be placed in our foster-to-adopt program, so she could comfortably continue to heal until she was ready to be spayed and placed up for adoption.
After just eight days in HPA’s care, Willow showed enough progress that she was ready to leave for her foster-to-adopt home. While she wasn’t out of the woods just yet, our staff was amazed at how far Willow had come after just a week of treatment. On June 16, about one month after she first arrived at the shelter, Willow was officially adopted by her foster family. During her time in our care and her foster home, Willow has managed to make a full recovery and has completely transformed from a scared, pained, defenseless animal to a beautiful, happy, healthy, outgoing puppy. Today, she is doing extremely well and is flourishing with her forever family.
Without the instinct of Willow’s original caretaker and the care from our HPA staff, Willow would have never made it this far. Because of the generosity and dedication of our donors, staff, and volunteers, we were able to provide Willow with life-saving treatment and care, as well as the resources her foster family needed to care for her.
Thanks to your support, we were able to give Willow a second chance at a healthy life with a loving family. Please donate now to ensure we have the resources needed to provide life-saving care for the next animal that comes through our door.
Introducing Stitch: Little and Broken, But Still Good
When Brandea Taylor, Shelter Manager of The Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving, first saw Stitch on November 15, she could barely hold back her tears. The young Pitbull puppy, which should have weighed fifty pounds or more, was just shy of skin and bones, weighing only twenty pounds. He could barely walk or hold himself up as his caretaker begged for help. She had already taken him to another veterinarian in the area, where he was treated for five days due to extreme diarrhea and vomiting. After spending all she could manage to treat his unknown illness, she returned home with Stitch and medication that unfortunately didn’t work. As his condition worsened, his owner was at the end of her financial and emotional rope, with nowhere else to turn. Before leaving in tears, she asked Brandea to take Stitch into HPA’s care, make him well, and find him a new home.
After examination and bloodwork revealed profound dehydration, malnourishment, and anemia, HPA Veterinarian Dr. Amber Weaver concluded Stitch suffered from a bowel obstruction that would soon prove fatal without immediate action. Dr. Brandon Wegner performed exploratory surgery and was shocked to find a two-inch foam Nerf ball in Stitch’s small intestine, which had been blocking his digestive tract for over a month. Even with the successful removal of the object, Stitch’s comeback was uncertain. To safely recover, he would need careful feedings every four hours for twenty-four hours a day and a night nurse to watch over him. Thankfully, HPA Veterinary Technician, Cindy Rivera, volunteered to take him home each night and bring him back to work every day. After two weeks, he had already gained ten pounds under Cindy’s care and was cleared for adoption.
Stitch’s original owner was overjoyed to hear of his recovery, but she felt she could not give him the life he deserved and asked Brandea to keep her promise to find Stitch a new forever home. Brandea did just that, and Stitch was adopted by a family that met him while he was being fostered. When they returned for Stitch’s follow-up veterinary visit on December 15, he weighed a whopping 40 pounds. He had doubled his weight in just one month!
Stitch’s comprehensive veterinary care directly cost Humane Pennsylvania thousands of dollars, and would have easily cost thousands more, had these services been provided by a for-profit veterinary hospital. Humane PA could only provide this life-saving treatment because of exceptional staff and volunteers, and the support of our generous donors. Like thousands of other pets each year, Stitch had access to care that would otherwise not be possible without Humane Pennsylvania. The animals in our care and the care of those in our community are family, and family means no pet gets left behind or forgotten.
Your support gives animals like Stitch a second chance at life. Help us save more animals now.
